CT Opportunity Fund

Overview

Opportunity Starts Here

The CT Opportunity Fund helps small businesses in Connecticut communities get the affordable financing they need to grow. Whether you're a first time entrepreneur, located in a high poverty area, or have struggled to access traditional bank loans, this fund is designed to open doors and support your next step forward.

What the Fund Offers

Flexible, low interest loans that help you:

  • Purchase Machinery and Equipment
  • Renovation of your building or leasehold improvements
  • Relocation or working capital needs
  • Marketing and Advertising
  • Other expenses approved by Lender

Loans range from $10,000 to $500,000, with interest rates capped at 4% and terms up to 10 years.

Who the Fund Supports

The CT Opportunity Fund provides loans to eligible small businesses whose owners or operations meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Operate or reside in a concentrated poverty census tract (as defined in CGS 32-?x).
  • Have adjusted gross income at or below the annual adjusted median household income, as determined by HUD.
  • Are first time business owners or enterprises that lack access to traditional commercial lending.

In addition, applications are considered in priority order:

  1. Businesses located in concentrated poverty census tracts.
  2. Businesses meeting the HUD income eligibility-threshold.
  3. First-time business owners or those facing capital-access barriers.

Why This Matters

Connecticut is committed to expanding economic opportunity. The CT Opportunity Fund invests directly in entrepreneurs who have the talent, vision, and drive but need a fair shot at capital to bring their ideas to life.

How to Get Started

Program details and application information will be posted as the fund launches. Sign up for updates or contact DECD's small business team to learn more.

Administered Through HEDCO

The CT Opportunity Fund is administered by HEDCO, a Connecticut-based, mission-driven lender. HEDCO specializes in serving underserved borrowers and is committed to ensur ing that loan terms and underwriting practices support long-term business growth and sustainability.